2 February 2009

Staff from West Suffolk Hospital will be helping to save lives by supporting the British Heart Foundation’s ‘red for heart’ campaign during National Heart Month.

The cardiology team will be handing out advice in the hospital’s main reception on Monday 9 February between 10am and 1pm. Anyone is welcome to drop by and have their blood pressure and pulse checked while picking up tips on reducing their risk of developing heart disease.

People will also be given the chance to show their support for the important work of the British Heart Foundation by wearing red or buying a special charity pin.

Melanie Amps, cardiology nurse specialist at the hospital, said: “Heart and circulatory disease is the UK’s biggest killer. We want to do all that we can to raise awareness of the steps which people can take to reduce their risk as well as highlighting the importance of recognising early symptoms of the disease.

“We will be checking people’s blood pressure and pulse and giving advice where and when its needed. We’re also encouraging everyone to show their support for the valuable work carried out by the British Heart Foundation by wearing red or donating to the charity.”

The British Heart Foundation provides support and care for patients with heart problems by funding specialist nurses and donating vital equipment to hospitals, first aiders and emergency services.

The charity relies heavily on fundraising and volunteers to continue its important work and is appealing for more people to step forward and help in the Bury St Edmunds area.

Anyone interested in making a donation or volunteering for the charity should contact Brenda Clabburn, fundraising and volunteer manager, on 01953 450210.

See also: British Heart Foundation| website